What is the primary function of PXE booting a computer?

The primary function of PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) booting a computer is indeed image deployment. PXE allows a computer to boot and load its operating system or a disk image over a network rather than from a local storage device like a hard drive or USB stick. This is particularly useful in environments where many computers need to be set up or re-imaged at once, such as in corporate settings or large organizations.

Using PXE can significantly streamline the process of deploying operating systems by enabling IT administrators to use a centralized server to manage and distribute images. By selecting an image to deploy via the network, computers can boot into installation programs that are hosted on a server, making the setup process more efficient and consistent across multiple machines.

While the other options such as multiboot configuration, in-place upgrades, and system repair might involve different methods of managing operating systems, they are not the primary functions associated with PXE booting, which focuses on booting from a network for the purpose of initial system installation and configuration through imaging.